What a way to start an AFLW career as Knoll slots goal with first kick
After a long journey of injury setbacks, Shelby Knoll finally made her AFLW debut for Richmond on Saturday, showcasing persistence and determination.
Knoll’s Impactful Debut
Just a day after turning 25, Knoll quickly made her mark by kicking a goal with her very first kick in the game against the Gold Coast Suns.
“Knoll won a holding the ball free kick in the forward pocket and from up against the boundary she showed her class by nailing the tricky set-shot to kick Richmond's opening goal of the game.”
Career Background and Injury
- Knoll joined Richmond in April 2023 through the AFLW supplementary draft.
- She suffered an ACL injury in December 2023, delaying her debut.
- Almost two years of rehabilitation led to her selection for Richmond’s final game of the season.
Game Result and Early Career
Despite Knoll’s early goal, Richmond ended the season with a 14-point loss to the Suns, finishing 5.9 (39) to 3.7 (25) at IKON Park.
Knoll started playing football with the youth girls team at Kangaroo Flat in 2014, then progressed to their senior women’s team before moving to Castlemaine in 2022 when they joined the Central Victorian Football League women's competition.
Author’s summary: Shelby Knoll’s AFLW debut for Richmond was marked by determination and success, scoring a goal with her first kick after overcoming a serious knee injury.